JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Gov. Jay Nixon wants Missouri school children to spend more time in the classroom.

Nixon said Friday that he wants to extend Missouri's minimum school year from 174 days to 180 days. He says keeping Missouri children in the classroom longer will help the state remain economically competitive.

The Democratic governor also called for increased funding for preschool education programs. And he says his proposed budget will call for additional funding for the A+ scholarship program.

Nixon is traveling to schools in Nixa in southwestern Missouri and Orrick east of Kansas City.

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